What Halloween graveyard or yard haunt would
be complete without the Grim Reaper himself menacing your trick or treaters?

We wanted our Soul Taker to look as realistic as
possible, so we used a Bucky Skeleton as the base. Unlike the cheap plastic skeletons you
can buy this time of the year, Bucky is an economical life-size articulated plastic/latex
skeleton. Skull includes movable jaw, cut calvarium, and 3 removable lower teeth. Size:
5'6" tall. And the best news is that these skeletons are around $120.00!

So how is it that you can get one of these
skeletons that normally cost hundreds of dollars for for little? These skeletons are
seconds. During the manufacturing process some skeletons and parts are blemished,
discolored, irregular or slightly damaged. At $120.00 or less Bucky is a great addition to
your Halloween decor.

First, you need to build our
"Nearly Invisible Skeleton Stand". Its pretty easy to put together and only
costs about fifteen dollars. See our article "Building a
Bucky Skeleton Stand" for detailed instructions. Place the skeleton on the stand
per the instructions.

Watch for
an upcoming how-to article on adding glowing red eye sockets to the skeleton. This really
adds a sense of life to the prop.

Once you have the skeleton on the stand and
secure, dress it in a black hooded robe. These costumes are plentiful during the Halloween
season and can be bought for as little as $10.00. We actually used a kids size so that the
feet and part of the legs showed, so that a little more bone was visible.

While its possible for one person to dress these
skeletons, it's a lot easier with two people. One person maneuvers Bucky's arms, while the
other slips the costume on. Start with the arms, then over the skull.

Attach a plastic scythe to his right hand and
foot using twist ties, plastic zip ties or string. Scythe prop's can be found at most
discount stores for three or four dollars. There you have it, a realistic looking Grim
Reaper prop for your Halloween festivities!